Honesty and Fairness

This character trait means being truthful and just.  Discuss how this trait has been recently demonstrated by classmates, school personnel, and family.  Then generate a list of how students can demonstrate the traits of honesty and fairness today.  Brainstorm situations in which it was a challenge to be honest.  Tell a short story about how one “small” lie can lead to another.  Discuss with your students the consequences of “small” lies.  Develop a list of types of dishonesty such as cheating on tests, exaggerating, “white lies.”  Discuss whether any of the forms of dishonesty are “OK” and why not.  What action can take place instead of being dishonest (studying harder for a test, give honest compliments).

Read these books to students to start discussions on honesty and fairness:

          Stega Nona by Tomie de Paola

          The Boy Who Cried Wolf by Jeffrey Dinardo

          Corey Coleman, Grade 2 by Larry Dane Brimmer

          The Christmas Coat by Clyde Robert Bulla

          George Washington and the Cherry Tree

          The Boy Who Cried Wolf

          Jack and the Beanstalk